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Amazing 25-Minute Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Shrimp

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Shrimp

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Make this quick Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Shrimp for a fantastic weeknight Italian dinner. This recipe brings together simple ingredients for big flavor, perfect for when you want something delicious fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to your taste)
  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. You want the oil warm, not smoking.
  3. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the oil. Cook slowly, stirring often, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn light golden brown. Watch this step closely; burnt garlic tastes bitter.
  4. Increase the heat to medium. Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
  5. Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the shrimp and oil mixture.
  6. Pour in about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together vigorously. The starchy water combines with the oil to create a light, creamy sauce that coats the pasta. Add more pasta water if the sauce seems too dry.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and lemon juice, if using. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  8. Serve immediately. Enjoy your fast and flavorful meal!

Notes

  • Sasha suggests adding a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
  • Anya recommends using high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor since it is a main component.
  • If you don’t have shrimp, this sauce is wonderful with sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes instead.

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